The principle of “Energy Efficiency First” is a fundamental element of the European Union’s (EU) energy and climate policy. Energy-efficiency-based decisions should be regarded as a key approach in all energy policies, legislation, and investment processes. When applying the EE1st principle, EU Member States must take into account the expected impact of a given decision on energy poverty. Thus, leveraging energy efficiency, including building renovation, becomes a major tool for addressing energy poverty across the EU.
A new study titled “Energy Efficiency First to Energy Poverty” presents the first comprehensive plan to address this issue through building renovation and the application of the “Energy Efficiency First” principle. The study includes various practices from European countries, including Bulgaria.
According to the findings, energy-efficient deep renovation in the Energy Community region could reduce household energy consumption by over 60%, improve public health by reducing dampness and respiratory illnesses, and create between 12 and 19 jobs for every €1 million invested. At the same time, such measures could deliver up to three times greater value than the direct cost savings through improved well-being and productivity.
To unlock these benefits, the report calls on governments to define and measure energy poverty, prioritize vulnerable households in renovation programs, adopt innovative financing models, strengthen monitoring mechanisms, and implement the “Energy Efficiency First” principle by redirecting subsidies toward energy efficiency and clean energy solutions.
For more information: Energy Efficiency First for Energy Poverty Study
